The Cacao and Coffee Festival

10th Edition of the Cocoa and Coffee Festival: Reflecting on the Industry's Economy and Showcasing Local Expertise

The cocoa and coffee sector took centre stage during the 111th session of the International Cocoa Council (ICCO) and the 10th Cocoa and Coffee Festival, held on April 7 and 10, 2025 respectively. These events provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on the industry's economic landscape and showcased local expertise in product processing.

The esplanade of the City Hall hosted local exhibitors alongside those from other regions. Notably, the Director General of SODECAO attracted considerable attention from both participants and visitors. He took the time to visit various stands, including SODECAO’s, and frequently engaged with different exhibitors.

His presence was warmly welcomed, and the exhibitors valued the chance to learn from his extensive experience in cocoa cultivation. His insights generated sparked keen interest, highlighting the crucial role of expertise in this ever-evolving field.

These interconnected events, which truly showcase innovation and expertise, signal a promising future for stakeholders in the sector, including SODECAO, which continues to establish itself as a key player in the development of the cocoa industry.

The events culminated in robust resolutions designed to promote authentic growth in the sector, including the establishment of a Cocoa Exchange in Cameroon. This initiative reflects the aspirations of African countries to set their own prices, independent of the London exchange mechanisms. The future looks bright for all stakeholders in this sector, thanks to the valuable learning experiences and exchanges fostered by these events.

By NJK